Method and device for ultrasound guided minimal invasive access of a bodily cavity

ABSTRACT

A puncture assistance device for use in connection with an ultrasound probe to guide a Veress needle through the layers of the wall into a bodily cavity is provided. The puncture assistance device comprises a tenaculum-like forceps, a needle guide body provided with a slot for guiding the Veress needle within the scan plane of the ultrasound probe, attachment means to the ultrasound probe, and attachment means of the needle guide to the tenaculum-like forceps. Also provided is a balloon catheter for use as a retractor in gaining access into the abdominal cavity, presenting at its distal end an inflatable balloon membrane and an framework of non-distendable flexible fibers disposed in a specific arrangement. A method access the abdominal cavity with the aid of said devices under ultrasound guidance is also provided.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/619,14997, filed on 12 Dec. 2013, and is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Over the past 50 years, developments in electronic and optical technologies have meant that it has become possible to perform many operations laparoscopically. The unique feature distinguishing laparoscopic from open abdominal or vaginal surgery is the need to insert needles, trocars and cannulas for initial entry into the abdomen, the insertion of the primary trocar being made blindly in most cases. This may result in inadvertent bowel or vascular injury which can be responsible for major morbidity and mortality. In the last 25 years great efforts have been made for the prevention of these injuries by developing so called safe entry techniques especially because almost 50% of the complications of laparoscopic surgery occur at the time of primary entry site into the abdomen, before even surgery has begun.

The classic site for gaining access into the abdominal cavity by insertion of the first trocar is the umbilicus, this being the thinnest part of the abdominal wall, with abdominal fasciae fused into the umbilical ring.

The problem resides in the proximity of the large retroperitoneal vessels and the frequency of infraumbilical adhesions by the bowel and omentum found in almost 10% of cases, which can lead to injury of the aforementioned structures, especially in the case of a previous laparotomy or obese or too thin patients.

The closed entry technique comprises the Veress needle technique and the direct entry technique. The technique used by most gynecologic surgeons implies inserting a hollow needle called the Veress needle into the abdomen through the abdominal wall, after lifting the latter, performing a series of tests that whiteness the probable location of the tip inside the abdomen, insufflation of the abdomen with CO₂ to a predetermined set pressure and insertion of a trocar cannula after the removal of the needle. Note that there are three blind steps in performing this procedure: insertion of the Veress needle, insufflation and insertion of the cannula. The direct trocar entry implies insertion of the primary trocar through the umbilicus, followed by insertion of the optics and the insufflation of the abdominal cavity. Although it takes less time to perform than the Veress needle technique, and is associated with less minor insufflation-related side effects, the possible complications associated with insertion of a large sharp instrument blindly could prove to be severe.

The open Hasson technique (U.S. Pat. No. 3,817,251) implies the visualization and cutting of the abdominal layers upon entry by using blunt and sharp dissection, and insertion of the primary trocar under sight. This technique has not lowered the rate of bowel complications however in large population studies, just the recognition of them.

The radially expanding access system (U.S. Pat. No. 5,827,319), was developed to minimize tissue trauma. This system uses a pneumoperitoneum needle with a polymeric sleeve. Following routine insufflation the needle is removed leaving the outer sleeve in situ, followed by direct dilatation of the sleeve into creation of a port. Complications are similar to the ones of the closed technique.

Visual trocars imply the use of optics through the cannulas upon insertion through the abdominal layers (U.S. Pat. No. 6,638,265, States Surgical Corps Visiport™ trocar and the Ethicon Endosurgery's Optiview™). Studies have not shown a reduction of entry complication by using these techniques, but only the rate of recognition.

However, the incidence of first entry complications remains the same in the last 25 years, whichever technique is performed, in spite of the technical progress, studies not showing the superiority of either technique into lowering the complication rate.

Attempts to use ultrasound as a recognition tool for umbilical adhesions have been made. The “Visceral slide” technique developed by F. Tu et al. uses an abdominal probe placed over the umbilicus and the patient is asked to take very quick and large breaths. The underlying viscera (bowel) move freely relative to the abdominal wall for 3-5 in normal cases. In the event of underlying adhesions, there is no or little movement.

The PUGSI technique (Peroperative periumbilical ultrasound-guided saline infusion) developed by C. Nezhat et al. implies performing visceral slide followed by infraumbilical injection of 6-10 cc of sterile saline through a spinal needle under direct ultrasound guidance. Formation of fluid pocket and non-dispersion suggest subumbilical adhesions.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,209,721 uses a Veress needle with an ultrasonic wave generator and a sensor mounted thereon, monitoring ultrasonic pressure waves reflected from internal organs or tissues located along the insertion path of the needle.

Various designs of percutaneous needle guides for attachment to non-invasive medical scanning devices, for example hand-held transducer probes, are known in the art. These guides may be used to direct a percutaneous needle to a needle entry site, which is located alongside the scanning device on an epidermis of a scanned body, and which corresponds to a subcutaneous target located by the device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, a puncture assistance device for use in connection with an ultrasound probe to guide a Veress needle through the layers of the wall into a bodily cavity is provided. The puncture assistance device comprises a tenaculum-like forceps provided with ratchet fixation and sharp incurving, needle like pointed blades, a needle guide body provided with a slot for guiding the Veress needle within the scan plane of the ultrasound probe, attachment means to the ultrasound probe, and attachment means of the needle guide to the tenaculum-like forceps. The improvement consists in the possibility of maneuvering the cavity wall layers by the tenaculum-like forceps, into spacing them apart for better ultrasound view and to create access space for preventing entry injuries.

Pursuant to another feature of the present invention, a balloon catheter for use as a retractor in gaining access into the abdominal cavity, is comprising an elongated shaft with a balloon retractor at the distal end of the elongated shaft, providing an inner balloon membrane that is inflatable to a maximum volume and an attached outer framework of non-distendable flexible fibers disposed in a specific arrangement on the different faces of the balloon, providing a mesh-like structure on a side of the balloon. A pilot balloon is connected to the balloon retractor. The balloon retractor is inserted guided by the Veress needle through the layers of the abdomen with balloon in a collapsed state, followed by its inflation, leading to the expansion of the fiber net, and upon piercing by a sharp trocar through the layers of the abdomen and balloon, the burst of said balloon is followed by the entanglement of the tip of the trocar in the mesh, preventing thereby puncturing wounds to the internal organs made by the sharp tip of the trocar upon insertion.

Another aspect of the current invention is represented by a method to develop pneumoperitoneum with the aid of an ultrasound device. This is comprising making an incision in the skin of the abdominal wall, attaching the puncturing assistance device that is operatively connected to an ultrasound transducer to the abdominal fascia, inserting a Veress needle through the said puncturing device, observing the path of the Veress needle through the layers of the abdomen by means of the ultrasound transducer that sends an image to a ultrasound monitor, interpreting the image by the operator and redirecting the needle according to the information until entering the peritoneum, insufflating the abdominal cavity while observing with the ultrasound transducer. A safety alternative is represented by the use of the balloon retractor that is inserted by guidance from the Veress needle, and by inflation protects the content of the abdomen from piercing injuries made by the tip of the trocar.

Another aspect of the current invention is represented by a method to develop pneumoperitoneum with the aid of an ultrasound device by access through the vagina. This is comprising, attaching the puncturing assistance device that is operatively connected to an ultrasound transducer to the cervix of the uterus, inserting a Veress needle through the said puncturing device, observing the path of the Veress needle through the posterior fornix of the vagina by means of the ultrasound transducer that sends an image to a ultrasound monitor, interpreting the image by the operator and redirecting the needle according to the information until entering the abdominal cavity, insufflating the abdominal cavity while observing with the ultrasound transducer. A safety alternative is represented by the use of the balloon retractor that is inserted by guidance from the Veress needle, and by inflation protects the content of the abdomen from injuries made by the tip of the trocar.

Another aspect of the current invention is represented by a method to access a hollow inner organ with the aid of an ultrasound device. This is comprising applying the puncturing assistance device that is operatively connected to an ultrasound transducer to the abdominal wall, inserting a needle through the puncturing device, observing the path of the needle through the layers of the abdomen and inner organ by means of the ultrasound transducer that sends an image to a ultrasound monitor, interpreting the image by the operator and redirecting the needle according to the information until entering the organ cavity. A safety alternative is represented by the use of the balloon retractor that is inserted by guidance from the Veress needle, and by inflation protects other organs from injuries made by the tip of the trocar.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 Perspective view illustrating an embodiment of the puncture assistance device, clamp, Veress needle and the ultrasound probe;

FIG. 2 Exploded view illustrating an embodiment of the puncture assistance device, clamp, Veress needle and the ultrasound probe;

FIG. 3 Perspective bottom view of the puncture assistance device in this embodiment;

FIG. 4 Perspective top view of the puncture assistance device in this embodiment;

FIG. 5 Sectional transverse view of the puncture assistance device in this embodiment at the level of its joints to the clamp;

FIG. 6 Sectional transverse view of the puncture assistance device in this embodiment at the level of its clamping member for the ultrasound probe with clamping member in closed position;

FIG. 7 Sectional transverse view of the puncture assistance device in this embodiment at the level of its clamping member for the ultrasound probe with clamping member in open position;

FIG. 8 Sectional longitudinal view of the puncture assistance device in this embodiment;

FIG. 9 Perspective bottom view of an embodiment of the balloon retractor and Veress needle;

FIG. 10 Sectional longitudinal view of the pilot balloon;

FIG. 11 Perspective top view of this embodiment of the balloon retractor and Veress needle;

FIG. 12 Detailed top perspective view of this embodiment of the balloon retractor;

FIG. 13-17 Perspective sectional views of the abdominal wall illustrating successive steps of the method of use of the device in this embodiment;

FIG. 18 Perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the puncture assistance device;

FIG. 19 Exploded view of the puncture assistance device in a preferred embodiment;

FIG. 20 Perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the balloon retractor

FIGS. 21-23 Perspective sectional views of the female pelvis illustrating successive steps of the method of use of the device in this embodiment;

FIG. 24 Perspective view of the puncture assistance device and an alternate embodiment of the ultrasound device;

FIG. 25 Perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the balloon retractor;

FIG. 26 Perspective view of an embodiment of the device illustrating a method of gaining access into a hollow organ.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following specification I shall nominate as proximal a part of the assembly that is located relatively close to the operator, and as distal a part of the assembly that is located further away from the operator and hence close to the operating field.

FIG. 1 presents an perspective right top view of the assembly 1, formed by the ultrasound probe 5 in combination with the puncture assistance device 10 to which the Veress needle 60 is added, and FIG. 2 presents an exploded view of the same. They depict an elongated ultrasound probe 5 that is otherwise known to be used for transvaginal or transrectal diagnostic procedures, with a flattened upper surface, formed of an elongated handle part 6 that serves to be gripped by the operator, an elongated shaft 7 that presents an elongated niche 8 on its flattened upper side (FIG. 2), and a rounded distal scanning part 9 that sends and receives ultrasound signals to/from the area to be examined that are converted to an image on the desktop of the ultrasound scanning device, this image serving to be interpreted by the examiner.

The Veress needle 60 depicted in the following is represented by a tubular needle shaft with a needle tip 61 and a tubular obturator that is slidably located inside the needle shaft and has an open front end 62. The obturator has an extended position with its front end in front of the needle tip of the needle shaft and a retracted position with its front end behind the needle tip. The obturator forms a channel there trough to pass an article out the open front end.

The puncture assistance device 10 comprises a tenaculum-like clamp 50, that is removably attached to the elongated body of the needle guide 15, this being also removably attached to the upper body of the ultrasound probe 5 by means of clamping fasteners 30 and 40 that fit closely around the handle part 6, respectively the elongated shaft 7 of the ultrasound probe and an elongated ridge 16 (FIG. 3) that fits within the elongated niche 8 of the ultrasound probe. The distal part of the body of the needle guide 15 presents a prominent part 20, which includes an inner slot for the insertion of the Veress needle 60.

The tenaculum clamp 50 is made of two opposing mirroring handles 51 and 52 with proximal finger loops, and two half-toroid segments 53 and 54 each one corresponding to a handle, that serve as pivot point, these being internally circumscribed by a circular ring 55 that is C-shaped on section and is holding segments 53 and 54 in contact to each other (FIG. 8). The handles 51, 52 are provided with ratchet fixation 56 at the level of the finger loops, represented by a series of interlocking teeth, a few on each handle, and the clamp also provides sharp incurving, needle-like inward pointing, sharp pointed curved blades 58 at the distal end.

Part 20 of the elongated body of the needle guide 15 also presents attachment means to the aforementioned clamp 50, which are represented by self-locking snap fit joints 17 and 17′, that address the clamp's handles 51, 52 of round shape on section, as well as snap fit coupling assembly 23, which fits within the circular ring 55 of the clamp 50 when attached. Snap-fit coupling assembly 23 is located at the distal part of needle guide 15 on its upper face, and comprises two symmetrical solid prominences 24, 25 having the shape of a frustum of a cone segment located on top of a corresponding cylinder segment, together forming a base of rounded shape for inserting the circular ring 55 of clamp 50. The two segments 24, 25 are separated by a latching device represented by a non-permanent releasing cantilever snap 26 having knobs 27 of triangular shape on section that are attached to the base by flexible lamellas. The attachment of the clamp 50 to the needle guide 15 is made by pressing the clamp at the level of the circular ring 55 against the coupling assembly 23, thereby causing the knobs 27 to be pressed against each other in order to allow ring 55 to enter and be latched. The height of the coupling assembly 23 is slightly higher than the one of the pivot part of clamp 50, allowing thereby a slight tilting freedom of motion. Supplemental stability to the attachment is given by the following insertion of the clamp handles 51, 52 inside the snap fit joints 17 and 17′, this step being optional. The detachment of the clamp 50 from the needle guide 15 is made by exerting angular traction on the handles 51, 52 at the level of their finger loops, which allows them to exit snap fit joints 17, 17′, followed by manually squeezing together the knobs 27 this allowing ring 55 to exit the snap fit 23.

FIG. 3-8 illustrate the puncture assistance device 10 depicting several supplemental aspects thereof.

FIG. 5 depicts a cross section front view of the puncture assistance device made at the level of snap fit joints 17, 17′.

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate a cross section rear view of the puncture assistance device made at the level of clamping member 40 that addresses the elongated shaft 7 of the ultrasound probe.

The snap-fit joints 17, 17′ (FIG. 5) are located on lateral protrusions 18, 18′ of the prominent part 20 of the needle guide 15. Thereon arciform flexible lamellas 19, 19′ partially include handles 51, 52, latching them in position when inserted.

The prominent part 20 of the needle guide 15 presents a sloped part 21 proximally from snap fit coupling assembly 23, that is including an inner slot 14 for the insertion of the Veress needle 60, this slot presenting an entry orifice 11 on the proximal face 22 of part 21, and an exit orifice 12 located at the distal tip of guide 15. The axis of slot 14 presents an angle in relation to the axis of the body of the needle guide, this angle allowing proper and easy manipulation of the Veress needle.

Clamping fastener 40 of needle guide 15 (FIG. 6, 7) is having an overall rounded shape that is correspondent to the shape on transversal section of the elongated shaft 7 that is flat on its upper side, comprising two symmetrical arciform lamellas 41, 42 that present an inferior opening in between that allows the insertion of shaft 7. Arciform lamellas 41, 42 thicken towards their ending into a cuboid shape with parallel inner and outer faces. At this point, the lamellas present orifice 45 on lamella 41 and 45′ on lamella 42, through which a bolted screw 46 is inserted, this comprising an outer knob 47, that can be manually rotated, located outside orifice 45, from which a pin extension enters through slot 45 and ends into a threaded bolt 48, that enters the nut 49, located in orifice 45′ of lamella 42. The bolt 48 presents a slight bigger diameter than the pin segment. Orifice 45 of lamella 41 presents an inner flange 44, which prevents bolt 48 from exiting the orifice when in retracted position.

The attachment of the ultrasound probe 5 to the needle guide 15 at this level is made by inserting the elongated shaft 7 through the opening between lamellas 41 and 42 with bolted screws in retracted position (FIG. 7), followed by pushing the bolt 46 towards orifice 45′ of lamella 42, and screwing it into nut 49, thereby causing lamellas 41, 42 to approach each other, pressing within clamp 40 the shaft 7 of the ultrasound probe, hence resulting a solid grip at this level. The detachment of the ultrasound probe follows the same pathway in reverse order. Clamp fastener 30, located proximally presents a similar construction manner to clamp 40, the only difference being represented by the overall ovoid shape that addresses the handle section 6 of the ultrasound probe.

The attachment of the ultrasound probe 5 to the needle guide 15 is made by aligning them against each other, inserting handle 6 into clamp 30, elongated shaft 7 into clamp 40, and elongated ridge of needle guide 15 into corresponding niche 8, verifying the alignment, followed by the fastening of clamping members 30 and 40 until obtaining a solid grip.

FIG. 9-12 display a balloon retractor catheter 80 that serves as an external sheath of the Veress needle 60 upon entry. The balloon retractor catheter 80 comprises an elongated double lumen shaft 85, the length of which being inferior to that of the Veress needle shaft. Shaft 85 consists of two lumens, one being designated for the insertion of the Veress needle, the tip 61 surpassing the tip 87 of shaft 85 distally. The tip 87 is also sharpened in form of a needle tip, thereby easing the insertion of the balloon retractor catheter through the layers of the abdominal wall on the path created by the Veress needle 60. At the proximal end, the shaft 85 presents a neck 81 followed by a thickened adaptor 82 for the insertion of the Veress needle 60. The second lumen of the shaft 85 having a smaller diameter is represented by a channel there trough to pass a fluid between pilot balloon 70 and balloon retractor 90. The inflatable pilot balloon 70 presents a rounded shape, being made of resilient material, being included within a rigid frame 72, that comprises distally a protrusion 73 for the exit of tube 71, and proximally a female syringe connector 75, that presents a single direction flow valve 77, which doesn't allow the fluid entering the pilot balloon to exit it, except through tube 71, which connects the pilot balloon to the aforementioned second lumen of the elongated shaft 85. Tube 71 is surrounded by a flexible reinforcing, strengthened outer tube 74, which is inserted at the level of the neck 81 of the elongated shaft 85, surrounding it, assuring thereby that a strong pull may be exerted by hand by the operator.

Balloon retractor 90 is having an overall cylindrical shape, surrounding symmetrically the elongated shaft 85 to which it is attached on its inner side, and being surpassed distally by tip 87, being comprised of a balloon 91 represented by an inner layer of thin material, that when inflated recreates the aforementioned cylindrical shape, and is not inflatable beyond its maximum volume capacity. An outer mesh of reinforced, non-distendable thin fibers is attached to the outer surface of balloon 91, presenting different patterns on the different faces of cylinder. On its lower distal face, there is represented a single reinforced non-pierceable layer 92, that is attached on the outer surface of balloon 91. The lateral aspect of the fibers is represented by longitudinally oriented fibers 93, displayed in a circular pattern around balloon 90, connecting the lower, distal part 92 to the mesh 95 of the upper face. On the upper proximal side of the balloon 91, and attached to it, a cobweb-like net 95 of intersecting, interconnected fibers displayed in a crisscross pattern, creating non-distendable reinforced mesh spaces, with diameter significantly smaller than that of a trocar, but large enough for the sharp tip of the trocar to pass through. A trocar (FIG. 17) is a sharp pointed surgical instrument, which is used inside a hollow cannula to introduce it inside the abdomen in laparoscopic surgery. It is displayed as a means for introduction of cameras or other laparoscopic instruments. Net 95 is attached to and surrounded by circular fibers 96, which are being attached to longitudinal fibers 93, previously described, and also to radially ascending fibers 98 displayed in a circular pattern around shaft 85. Fibers 98 are connected to circular fibers 96, and ascend freely towards shaft 85, where they attach at a more proximal level than the level of mesh 95. The length of fibers 98 is equal or greater than the sum of the radius of cylinder 90 plus the distance between the upper face of cylinder 90 and the attachment level of fibers 98 onto shaft 85.

Upon insertion into the abdominal cavity, the balloon retractor 90 is inserted in deflated state, adjacent to the elongated shaft 85, to which the inner part of the balloon 91 is closely attached, with reinforced layer 92 on the outer side of the deflated complex of the balloon retractor.

FIG. 13-17 illustrate an abdominal entry technique in patients at risk for abdominal wall adhesion with the use of the aforementioned device.

FIG. 13: A segment of the abdominal wall from the central area is depicted, the umbilicus being known to be the site of choice for primary entry in the abdomen by Veress needle or trocar. The following layers of the abdominal wall are represented: skin 101, subcutaneous fat tissue 102, anterior rectus fascia 103, body of the left 104 and right 104′ rectus muscle, transversalis fascia 105, properitoneal fat 106, parietal peritoneum 107.

The first step is to create a small intra- or periumbilical incision of the skin 101 by scalpel, followed by the instrumental sharp and blunt dissection and retraction of the subcutaneous fatty tissue 102 to expose the fascia 103. After visualization of the fascia 103, this is grasped with tenaculum-like clamp 50 by piercing it with its sharp pointed hooks 58, and by securing the ratchet 56, resulting a solid grip at this level.

FIG. 14: The next step is to attach the ultrasound probe 5 to the needle guide 15 by fixing it with clamp fasteners 30 and 40, to align the resulted combination to clamp 50, and to attach the clamp 50 to the needle guide 15 by fastening coupling assembly 23 to the circular ring 55 and clamps handles to snap-fit joints 17, 17′. The scanning part 9 of the ultrasound probe and the tip of the needle guide are hereby in perpendicular contact to the fascia and attached to it by means of the clamp 50. The operator can hereby visualize on the desktop (not shown) of the ultrasound device the different layers of the abdominal wall, measure them, and apply pressure and traction on it, viewing the way that the layers are distended or compressed and especially the mobility of the inner organs, represented in this area by intestines and omentum in relation to the parietal peritoneum identifying thereby possible adhesions if the mobility is very limited.

A Doppler ultrasound of the abdominal wall helps identifying blood vessels that lay on the path of the instruments, and could be damaged. The path can therefore be changed by tilting or repositioning assembly 1.

At this point a visceral slide test and a peroperative periumbilical ultrasound-guided saline infusion test with a spinal needle through the slot of the needle guide 15 can be made by the aforementioned technique in order to identify possible occluding adhesions to the abdominal wall.

If these are identified, the operator can choose either:

-   -   to continue at this site and perform the safety tests and         procedures that are to be described,     -   to tilt the complex formed by the puncture assistance device 10         and the ultrasound probe 5 for attempting entry at a different         angle,     -   reposition the puncture assistance device—detach the needle         guide 15 together with ultrasound probe 5 from tenaculum 50 and         tenaculum from fascia 103, and to apply the same steps         previously described at another level in the same incision     -   to leave this surgical site and continue at another site.

In thin patients it is possible to perform the aforementioned procedure and tests without performing an incision, by applying the tenaculum clamp 50 directly on the skin.

FIG. 15 illustrates the next step of using the assembly 1 that is applied on the rectus fascia 103, with the Veress needle 60 inserted through the needle guide 15 and pushed through the layers of the abdominal wall. One hand of the surgeon is gripping assembly 1, applying traction, while the other hand is inserting the Veress needle through the needle guide 15. The first assistant is holding a syringe with isotone solution that is coupled to the Veress needle by means, of a connector (not seen). By applying traction on the rectus fascia by pulling assembly 1, the abdominal wall is pulled away from the inner organs and great retroperitoneal vessels, creating a space in between, and the different layers of the abdominal wall are spaced apart for a better differentiation on ultrasound. The path of insertion of the Veress needle 60 is displayed on the screen of the ultrasound device, until the perforation of the parietal peritoneum 107 and entrance into the abdominal cavity.

A clearer picture on the ultrasound can be obtained by infiltrating saline solution through the Veress needle while inserting it, hereby creating by hydro-dissection fluid pockets 110, 110′ between the different layers of the wall that are separating them.

Of utmost importance is the fluid pocket 110′ located in the properitoneal layer 106, as this allows the precise measurement of the peritoneal membrane 107, whose thickness differs with age and associated pathology, and the relation between inner organs (represented at this level by intestine and omentum) and the peritoneal membrane depicting either mobility or immobility of the underlying structures.

A measurement corresponding to the normal thickness of the peritoneum 107 according to age and pathology associated with normal motion of the underlying structures when mobilizing the abdominal wall by pushing/pulling it with assembly 1 should exclude the presence of occluding parietal adhesions and ensure a safe entry at the site, followed by piercing the peritoneal membrane with the Veress needle.

An abnormally thickened peritoneal membrane with an inhomogeneous structure that cannot be distinguished from the underlying structures, which are relative immobile to the abdominal wall, raises the suspicion for occluding adhesions. In this case, the operator can choose either:

-   -   to tilt the complex formed by the assembly 1 for attempting         entry at a different angle, continuing with hydro-dissection         until normal peritoneum and underlying mobility are depicted,     -   to reposition the puncture assistance device—detach the needle         guide 15 together with ultrasound probe 5 from tenaculum 50 and         tenaculum from fascia 103, and to apply the same steps         previously described at another level in the same incision,     -   to leave this surgical site and continue at another site.

After piercing the peritoneum and entering the abdominal cavity, one should continue the instillation of fluid. Normally the fluid disappears as instilled as it flows in the cavity. If fluid pockets are depicted that do not disappear, occlusive adhesions are to be suspected.

After ensuring the safe entry into the abdominal cavity, the Veress needle is connected to the insufflation tubing and the abdomen is inflated with CO₂.

Assembly 1 should not be discarded while insufflating the pneumoperitoneum, as occult adhesions may become obvious at this time, interfering and creating supplemental risk when inserting the trocar. Normally with insufflation the intraabdominal structures underlying the peritoneum disappear from the screen of the ultrasound device, as gas is non-conductive to ultrasound waves. When observing intraabdominal structures that remain adherent to the abdominal wall and elevate together with it when insufflating, occlusive adhesions are present that may be damaged upon first trocar insertion.

FIG. 16 illustrates an alternative way of entry by using the balloon retractor catheter 80 in conjunction and as an external sheath to the Veress needle 60. Insertion steps and safety tests are the same as previously described, with balloon 90 in deflated state, applied to the body of the elongated shaft (not shown). After ensuring safe entry into the abdominal cavity, the Veress needle 60 and the balloon catheter 80 are pushed through until the neck 81 engages the slot of the puncture assistance device 10 at the level of orifice 11. A fluid filled syringe is then adapted to the female syringe connector 75 of the pilot balloon 70 and liquid is instilled hereby. The balloon 90 is filled with fluid until its maximum volume capacity where it assumes the cylindrical shape previously described, and any loose adhesions are pushed aside. The filling of the balloon 90 is witnessed by the inflation of the pilot balloon 70, without being followed by deflation as the latter is manufactured of elastic material, the connector 75 presenting a unidirectional valve, which allows only filling. By pulling on the pilot balloon 70, the upper face of the balloon 90 is applied on the inner surface of the peritoneum 107. This can be visually confirmed by identifying the fluid filled balloon in position on the screen of the ultrasound device. At this time, any thickening between the peritoneum and the upper face of the balloon retractor can be considered an adhesion, and that path should be avoided when inserting the primary trocar, except for when it disappears when the balloon is pushed inward and retracted afterwards.

FIG. 17 illustrates the entry of the primary trocar by using this technique. After ensuring the safety of entry by the aforementioned methods, the ultrasound probe 5 is uncoupled from puncture assistance device 10 and removed, and a trocar 130 is inserted through the skin incision to impact the fascia 103, at a small distance to the level where Veress needle 60 and balloon catheter 80 pierce the fascia and with a similar orientation. Rotating advancing movement are exerted on the trocar with one hand while the other provides counter-traction on the pilot balloon 70, lifting thereby the abdominal wall and ensuring close contact between the upper face of the cylindrical balloon 90 and the parietal peritoneum 107. As the sharp tip 135 of the trocar enters the abdominal cavity through the peritoneum, it will come in contact with the balloon retractor 90. It will enter through the mesh 95, and pierce the thin wall of balloon 91, creating a hole in it and causing it to burst, followed by the collapse of the mesh 95 around the tip of the trocar. This is witnessed by the rapid deflation of the elastic pilot balloon 70, which empties its content into the abdominal cavity through the burst balloon. As mentioned, tip 135 of the trocar enters in one of the non-distendable mesh holes of 95, of smaller diameter than the trocar, being entangled in it, and contacts the inferior reinforced layer 92 that it cannot pierce. The previously described radially ascending fibers 98 (FIG. 12) prevent the lateral misplacement of the mesh 95 after the collapse of the balloon 91, by keeping the surrounding circular fibers 96 in a steady position, creating a hammock-like stable structure that induces a centralized path to the trocar towards layer 92, and does not allow it to slip sideways. After the deflation of the pilot balloon 70, one should exert a lower amount of counter-traction at its level and let the balloon slide together with the trocar for a small distance until the insertion of the cannula, as layer 92 will prevent possible damage made by the sharp tip of the trocar. After the insertion of the cannula through the abdominal wall, the sharp trocar is removed, releasing thereby the collapsed balloon 90. The removal of the balloon 90 is made by pulling it reversely through its path after removing clamp 50 from the fascia, and disassembling it from needle guide 15, by traction exerted on the needle guide 15, which impacts at the level of slot orifice 11 of face 22 the neck 81 of the balloon trocar 85.

FIG. 18 introduces an alternate embodiment of the invention, namely assembly 110, which comprises ultrasound probe 5, attached to needle guide assembly 115 that contains tenaculum 150 and needle guide 120. Through a slot in the prominent part 125 of the needle guide 120, a Veress needle 60 is inserted. Attachment of the puncturing assistance device to the ultrasound probe is made by similar means as in the former embodiment by clamps 30, 40. Attachment of the tenaculum 150 to the needle guide 120 is made by lever 130 that rotates around pivot 135, inserted at the level of the elongated base of needle guide 120. Lever 130, is presenting an L-shape that allows it to be elevated from the base by pulling on the shorter segment, and insert it between the handles of the tenaculum 150, securing it thereby to the needle guide 120.

FIG. 19 presents a preferred embodiment of the invention, namely assembly 200 comprised of an ultrasound probe 5, previously described, together with a puncture adapter 210 that is comprised of an elongated part 215, which presents on its upper side a recess 220 of trapezoid shape, with a ratcheted lower face segment 225. The elongated part 210 presents attachment means to the ultrasound probe 5 through snap-fits 216, 217 which enter into corresponding recesses (not seen) of the ultrasound probe, securing thereby part 215 to probe 5.

A needle guide insert 230 is illustrated presenting a distal prominent part 235 with a slot 237 for the insertion of the Veress needle (not illustrated) through it, and an insertable part 240, of corresponding shape to the recess 220 of the elongated part 21. It also presents the pin 245, attached by a lever 246 to the needle guide insert 230. Pin 245 is designed to enter into the ratcheted lower face segment 225 of the elongated part 215, and thereby to axially lock the needle guide 230 from distal displacement.

Insert 250 is composed of an insertable part 255 of corresponding shape to the recess 220, with a hook 252 on its upper face with proximal convexity for securing tenaculum 150 (FIG. 21). Part 255 presents a distal sloped surface 257 and a proximal lever 259, ending in a handle part 260, which presents on its inferior surface a pin 262 meant for engaging the ratcheted segment 225 of the elongated part 215, thereby axially locking part 250 from distal displacement.

Inserts 230 and 250 are to be introduced by their insertable parts from distal towards proximal into recess 220, while pin 262 of part 250 and pin 245 of part 230 allow for proximal axial movement but prevent distal displacement of the inserts. Axial distal displacement of the insert 250 is made by elevating handle 260, thereby disconnecting pin 262 from ratchet 225. The sloped part 257 engages and elevates pin 245 of the insert 230 from the ratchet, thereby allowing it to be distally displaced and disconnected from the elongated part 215.

FIG. 20 discloses a preferred embodiment of a balloon retractor 270 composed of a single lumen elongated shaft 272 with a proximal handle part 274 and a Luer adaptor 275. In the distal part of the elongated shaft a balloon 280 is provided. The balloon is filled with fluid through the lumen of the elongated shaft 272 by attaching a syringe (not shown) to the Luer adaptor. Around the balloon and distended by it, a net 282 of reinforced fibers is provided. These are composed of longitudinal fibers 285, which are attached on both ends to the elongated shaft 272 by inserts 287 and 289, located proximal and respectively distal to the balloon 280. Circular fibers 290 are provided within the proximal half of the net 282, that intersect and are attached to the longitudinal fibers 285 creating thereby a cobweb-like mesh 292 with non-distendable holes.

FIGS. 21-23 present a method for transvaginal access for laparoscopy. A sagittal section of the pelvic viscera is illustrated for a patient in lithotomy position with the urinary bladder 300 located superiorly, the rectum 320 inferiorly, and the vagina 315 and uterus 310 in between. Device 200 is inserted into the vagina 315. Prior steps comprise exposure of the cervix 312 by means of specula (not illustrated), followed by grasping of the cervix 312 with tenaculum 150. Afterwards the assembled device 210, comprising ultrasound probe 5 with the elongated part 215 of the puncture adapter attached to it, and with inserts 250 and 230 introduced into recess 220 (FIG. 19) is introduced into the vagina 315 and a Veress needle 60 is inserted through the slot 237 (FIG. 19) of the needle guide insert 230. The puncture adapter 210 is previously secured to the tenaculum forceps 150 by hook 252 which enters between the jaws of the tenaculum, while insert 250 is pulled proximally and locked into position by traction applied on handle 260 causing pin 262 to enter ratchet 225 (FIG. 19). The tenaculum 150 pulls the uterus 310 and aligns it so that the trajectory of the Veress needle 60 through the posterior fornix 317 of the vagina does not cause injury. The piercing of the posterior fornix is made under ultrasound guidance with images provided by the probe 5 within a fluid environment on an ultrasound screen (not illustrated). After piercing through the posterior vaginal fornix, fluid is injected into the abdominal cavity in order to obtain an image that could show abnormal findings that contraindicate the continuation of the procedure. The obturator 62 of the Veress needle 60 protects the rectum or other viscera from injuries.

The next steps of the procedure are illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23. Through the Veress needle approximately 200 cc of fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity, while observing on the screen (not shown) of the ultrasound device the distension of the space between the rectum 320 and the uterus 310, called the pouch of Douglas, observing thereby conditions like adhesions or endometriosis that contraindicate the continuation of the procedure.

After ensuring the correct placement of the Veress needle, its obturator is unscrewed and removed, leaving only the outer shaft in place, and through it the balloon retractor 270 with balloon 280 (FIG. 20) and net 282 in collapsed state. The balloon (not shown) is afterwards filled with fluid, leading thereby to the expansion of the net 282. Yet again, by means of the ultrasound device, several contraindications for the procedure are accounted for. The balloon also creates a safe entry site with no interposed structures between the rectum and the uterus, minimizing the risk of injury when the trocar is inserted (FIG. 23). The next steps comprise the disposal of the tenaculum 150, elevation of the handle 260 of the insert 250, which leads to the disengagement of pin 262 from ratchet 225 (FIG. 19), thus allowing the axial translation towards distal of the insert 250. When the sloped part 257 (FIG. 19) of insert 250 engages the pin 245 (FIG. 19) of the needle guide insert 230, it also leads to the disengagement from the ratchet 225 (FIG. 19). This allows by pushing towards distal the disengagement of the needle guide insert 230 from the recess 220 (FIG. 19) of the puncture adapter. Afterwards, the device 210 is extracted from the surgical site, leaving behind only the balloon retractor 270 located within the outer shaft of the Veress needle 60 and the needle guide insert 230, as illustrated in FIG. 23. After obtaining the described configuration, the balloon retractor is pulled by its handle 274, causing the balloon (not shown) and net 282 to be pressed against the vaginal wall at the level of the posterior vaginal fornix 317 and to create a bulging at the level of the inner part of the vagina, thereby indicating a safe place for the insertion of the trocar 130.

Trocar 130 is inserted while pulling the balloon retractor 270 against the abdominal side of the vaginal wall. When the sharp tip of the trocar obturator 135 pierces through the vagina, it causes the burst of the balloon 280 (not seen in this figure), and the collapse of the cob-web like mesh 292 around it, leading to its entanglement and thus not allowing the trocar to be pushed further towards distal, as not to cause any nearby organ injury. The progression of the trocar 130 is felt through the handle 274 of the balloon retractor, and the process is timely stopped. Of utter importance is the fact that the circumference of the holes of the mesh 292 is smaller than the circumference of the trocar obturator 135, leading to its entanglement.

After entry, the obturator is removed from the trocar 130, and an optic telescope (not shown) is inserted. After an inspection, the collapsed balloon retractor is extracted from the vagina and surgery is continued.

As the steps are similar with the technique illustrated in the first described embodiment, it is understood that this preferred embodiment ca also be used for first entry into the abdomen by its surface, as well as for other hollow organ access.

Although the previous embodiments illustrate a vaginal probe 5, it is to be understood that this method of treatment is not limited to this type of ultrasound transducer—which can be of different shapes.

FIG. 24 illustrates an alternate embodiment of an ultrasound device 350, which comprises a screen and control part 355, connected by a handle 360 to an elongated ultrasound probe 370, of considerable smaller diameter than the vaginal probe previously depicted. The puncture assistance device 210 is attached to the probe 370 either by clamp rings, or by snap fits (not illustrated). The tenaculum 150 grips the fascia 103 of the abdominal wall, securing the device to it and allowing thereby the procedure to be made by following the steps previously described. The screen and control part 355 of the ultrasound device 350 provides control buttons 356 to be operated on by the surgeon, batteries (not seen), hardware and software components (not seen) that translate the signals from the probe into an image projected on the screen 357. The advantage of this embodiment would be its easier handling, by providing a sterile wrap (not shown) for the device.

Also the software component of the device can be programmed to detect an area of safe entry where the surgeon can pierce the wall without the risk of injury to the underlying organs. The software component recognizes safe entry sites and directs the surgeon by different color codes displayed of the screen 357, or by sonic signals.

FIG. 25 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the balloon retractor 400, where the net 405 is composed of elastic memory shape fibers with longitudinal 410 and circular 402 orientations, creating thereby in the proximal half where the fibers are interconnected, a non-distendable mesh meant to catch the tip of the trocar (not illustrated). Fibers 410 are attached to ring inserts 420, 421, which are themselves connected to the elongated shaft 425 of the balloon catheter. Insert 421 is immobile in relation to the elongated shaft, while insert 420 is slidably movable along elongated shaft 425. In order to insert the balloon retractor 400 through the hollow shaft of a Veress needle (not illustrated here), insert 420 has to be pulled proximally so as to keep the net 405 taut around the elongated shaft. After passing through the needle, insert is released so that the fibers regain their ellipsoid shape. This can be done either by a latching mechanism of the insert or a wrap around the fibers (not shown).

FIG. 26 illustrates the use of the apparatus into gaining minimally invasive access in other hollow organs like in the stomach 440 for a gastrostomy or the urinary bladder for a cystostomy. The ultrasound device 350 is placed with the ultrasound probe 370 on the patient's skin 101 or within a small incision. The puncture assistance device 210 is attached thereto. The natural cavity is filled with fluid either by pathological causes (bladder) or by means of and endoscope 450 or gastric tube (stomach). By guidance of the ultrasound device, a hollow needle 460 is used to pierce the layers of the abdominal wall, until its tip is inside the organ cavity and fluid is aspirated through the needle. There is no need for a tenaculum clamp or any other fastening devices, as there should only be applied pressure on the devices so that no other organs are within the path of the needle. The balloon retractor 270 is afterwards inserted through the needle 460 and the balloon 280 is filled with fluid. After ensuring the intracavitary situs of the balloon retractor, devices 210 and 350 are discarded from the surgical site and a trocar for the stoma is inserted while applying traction on the balloon retractor. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method to access a bodily cavity under ultrasound guidance that comprises: a. providing an ultrasound probe, a puncture assistance device with attachment means for said puncture assistance device to the wall of said bodily cavity, and a needle, b. securing said attachment means to a component of said cavity wall, c. connecting to said attachment means said puncturing assistance device that is operatively connected to said ultrasound transducer, d. inserting said needle through said puncturing device, e. observing by ultrasound the path of the needle until entering said cavity.
 2. The method to access a bodily cavity of claim 1 that further comprises: a. providing a balloon retractor with a non-distendable mesh, b. inserting said pilot balloon into said bodily cavity guided by said needle, c. expanding said non-distendable mesh and pulling it against the inner wall of said bodily cavity under ultrasound vision, d. applying traction on said balloon retractor while inserting a sharp trocar against it through said cavity wall, whereby said non-distendable mesh catches the sharp tip of said when it enters said bodily cavity, preventing thereby organ injuries.
 3. The method to access a bodily cavity of claim 2, whereby said bodily cavity is represented by the abdominal cavity, and said attachment means is represented by a tenaculum-like forceps attached on the abdominal cavity.
 4. The method to access a bodily cavity of claim 2 whereby said bodily cavity is represented by the abdominal cavity, and said attachment means is represented by a tenaculum-like forceps attached on the uterine cervix.
 5. The method to access a bodily cavity of claim 2 whereby said bodily cavity is represented by a hollow inner organ.
 6. The method to access a bodily cavity of claim 1, whereby a fluid is injected through said needle for creation of fluid pockets that provide a better ultrasound image.
 7. The puncture assistance device of claim 1 for use in connection with said ultrasound device to guide a Veress needle through said cavity wall comprising: a. attachment means of said puncture assistance device to said cavity wall, b. a needle guide body provided with a slot for guiding said Veress needle within the scan plane of said ultrasound device, c. attachment means of said puncture assistance device to said ultrasound device, and d. attachment means of said needle guide to said attachment means of said puncture assistance device to said cavity wall, whereby the improvement consists in the possibility of maneuvering said cavity wall by said attachment means, for a better ultrasound view of it and the underlying structures and for preventing injuries.
 8. The attachment means of said puncture assistance device of claim 7 to said cavity wall that is represented by a tenaculum forceps.
 9. The attachment means of said puncture assistance device of claim 7 to said ultrasound device that is represented by ring clamps.
 10. The attachment means of said puncture assistance device of claim 7 to said ultrasound device that is represented by snap fit joints.
 11. The attachment means of said needle guide body of the puncture assistance device of claim 7 to said tenaculum that is represented by snap fit joints.
 12. The attachment means of said needle guide body of the puncture assistance device of claim 7 to said tenaculum that is represented by a hook to be inserted between the jaws of said tenaculum.
 13. The needle guide body of the puncture assistance device of claim 7, provided with detachment means from said puncture assistance device.
 14. A balloon retractor for use in gaining access into a bodily cavity through its wall using a previously inserted needle as a guide comprising: a. An elongated shaft, b. A handle part at the proximal end of said elongated shaft, c. A retractor part at the distal end of said elongated shaft, comprising a framework of interconnected flexible fibers disposed in a specific arrangement, providing a non-distendable mesh structure that defines holes, Whereby said balloon retractor is inserted with said framework of fibers in a collapsed state, followed by the expansion of said framework, which, upon piercing by a sharp trocar through said wall of the bodily cavity, leads to the entanglement of the tip of said trocar in said mesh, preventing injuries to the internal organs made by said sharp trocar upon insertion.
 15. The balloon retractor of claim 14 that comprises: a. said handle part provided with a syringe adaptor, b. said retractor part, comprising a framework of interconnected flexible fibers disposed in a specific arrangement, around an inflatable balloon, c. said elongated shaft provided with at least one lumen, that connects said syringe adaptor to said balloon, whereby the inflation of said balloon is made with a fluid injected into the syringe adaptor leading to the expansion of said framework of interconnected fibers.
 16. The balloon retractor of claim 15 further comprising at the level of said handle part a pilot balloon in connection to the lumen of said elongated shaft, which is inflated together with said balloon, and indicates by rapid deflation the burst of said balloon when pierced by said sharp tip of the trocar.
 17. The framework of interconnected flexible fibers of claim 14 disposed in a specific arrangement, said fibers having an interconnected cobweb-like structure associated with radially ascending fibers from the outer edge of said cobweb-like mesh to said elongated shaft proximally, a continuous non-pierceable membrane distally, and interconnecting fibers in-between them. 